AN IRISH ADVENTURE BY JOSEPHINE LAW

Copyright 2012 Josephine Law/ss

What was a 33 year old pretty, petite African American woman doing in Theodie, Ireland with no family around, no inkling of the culture (other than reading Ireland for Dummies) while her 13 year old son Asher, was at space camp in Alabama for two weeks, while her family had shaken their heads and said, You cant go clear across the world alone, are you crazy?! And why she didnt even go with one of her oldest friends? Natalya Amon didnt know what she was doing. Natalya Amon didnt care what she was doing. She only knew that for the past two years there had been a wandering spirit in her soul and shed undertaken to quench it in any way possible. Shed flown to South Africa,

quench it in any way possible. Shed flown to South Africa, Seattle, New York, Greece and Belize from her home in Chicago, Illinois. Those cities, while somewhat exciting had only barely itched the scratch, if that. Shed undertaken learning French all over again (four years in high school had given her only the bare minimum conversational) and then spun her sons globe of the world, stuck her finger out and landed on Ireland. Now, the globe skipped a bare smidgen under her finger, so instead of Dublin, the only city that she did know in Ireland, it landed on Theodie, on the coast, way across the other side of Dublin. Im going to Ireland, Natalya told Asher, who sat on his bed, reading his newest Star Wars Trilogy book. He looked at his mother from bemused beautiful meltingly beautiful brown eyes surrounded by thick eyelashes that girls and women alike had been swooning over since shed presented him to the world thirteen years ago and shrugged and said, Sounds like fun, bring

me home a key chain. Her son collected key chains. She smiled because her son and she were so much alike, both very understated, both very sarcastic and both very antisocial. Yet, people did flock to them while they liked to flock to peace and tranquility. In their two bedroom 1500 square feet high rise apartment in Chicago, silence was a way of life. Peaceful and tranquil, she loved silence. Its going to be cold, she said more to herself than to him. Take a coat, he returned. She laughed and went over to tickle him, even though thirteen with his voice changed into a deep bass and seven inches taller than her own minute 51 he was still her baby boy. You turkey, She said as they laughed and before she swatted him to go to bed. It was Monday, another school day.

Shaking her head, Natalya smiled at the memory of the beginning of her trip to Ireland as the plane landed in Dublins airport. It didnt go unnoticed that she was only one of three people of color in the airport and she was getting mightily stared at by both men and women. Natalya shrugged, knowing shed stick out like a sore thumb, Ireland did not see many women of color in their city. Not many, she thought, grimacing slightly at the dull weather that had met her after the plane landed Natalya knew it was going to be cold, it was the end of May, Irelands high was 50 degrees and low of 30, she was going to freeze, even though she had stocked up on her iron pills and eaten as much red meat as humanly possible before flying here. Preparation was perfect. Shed also gotten an international drivers license, practiced driving on the wrong side of the road in her neighborhood late at night and was walking towards the car rental booth.

rental booth. Chum, she said in greeting, once at the rental counter, Natalya could do absolutely nothing about her southern light voice but she could at least attempt to blend in. She refused to be a haughty American, instead intent on immersing herself in the culture, taste the food, and become a part of Irish culture, just for a while, an overworked government worker with dreams of something more out there, something just within her reach. As she had told her best friend, she wanted it all, she just didnt know what that all entailed. Well, hullo, dearie, the elderly counter woman said smiling as she glanced interestedly at her. Natalya was dressed in an understated but thick blood red wool frock coat, deep blue indigo jeans, black sensible boots and a thick white cowls sweater. Her hair was currently golden blond and hung in tousled waves down her back. And what are you doing in our lovely city, my dear?

The rental clerk asked, taking Natalyas reservation number while chatting, clicking on the computer. Rest hopefully, She returned; smiling graciously, maybe she wouldnt get lynched from the nearest tree by a mob angry white Irish who thought shed intruded on their country one second too long. Well, my dear, there are lots of things to see in Dublin- she began. Oh, no, Natalya interrupted her. Im traveling to Theodie, she said. I placed that on the reservation. Oh and that you did, the rental clerk woman said in her lilting Irish voice. Quaint little town that is, my grand mum was from Theodie, I have family back there, see the O Shannigan, Ill ring them and let them know to watch after you. She said. Was the rental lady trying to set her up for a robbery, Natalya instantly thought in her suspicious, American way.

Natalya was super paranoid and distrustful; she did look a gift horse in his mouth and repeatedly questioned it. People were not to be trusted, good thing shed amped up her tae-bo and boxing workouts before coming, she was ready for a fight, even though she was hoping a fight would be the last thing shed encounter. My cousin is the priest of the church, he and his wife, Garrison and Annah are the sweetest, getting along in age as the rest of us, but their nephew takes care of things for them. You just give them a ringyou do go to church dont you? She questioned accusingly. Oh, yes, Natalya responded, nodding. Faithful church goer, Christian. As well as you should be. The children here, do not know their left from the right, all this free love and do what you want, its a shame it is. Its good that a young thing like you knows the Lord, she said before looking at Natalyas license.

knows the Lord, she said before looking at Natalyas license. Three and thirty, my goodness, you dont look a day over one and twenty, good genes you do have, must be the skin color, she said, smiling nicely. She was white, Natalya pretended interest at the conversation. My mothers genes, Natalya stated. You wouldnt be the lass from the Tom Cruise, movie? Oh, I do love that movie, Mission Impossible, the second one? She asked excitedly. Oh, no, no, Natalya laughed, waving away her interest. A movie star I am not, just a regular American wanting a regular vacation. Why I just picked a place after spinning my sons globe and it landed hereIreland. The rental car lady pursed her lips as if not believing the tale. Even to Natalyas own ears it sounded weird and far fetched, how many goobers did stuff like that? Well, alas, I dont believe in coincidences, youre here

Well, alas, I dont believe in coincidences, youre here for a purpose. Heres the car, an automatic like you requested, four wheel little thing, good gas mileage on the euro, remember left side of the lane. Thank you, Natalya said, taking her credit card and license back from the clerk. And dont forget, my cousins Garrison and Annah, they do love the company, sweet as pie. Tell them Leah sent you. Nodding, Natalya pretended interest but knowing it would be highly doubtful if she did visit the womans family. Waving her away Natalya made her way to the rental car parking lot. Okay, She said to herself, finding the rental easily in the numbered parking spaces. She unlocked the trunk and placed her luggage in the back of the small four wheel vehicle. I can do this, She said. Settling in the car, she quickly turned on the ignition, revving up the heat but didnt leave the

parking lot. Without her realization, tears started to leak out of her eyes. What am I doing? She asked herself, staring outside the window. What am I doing on the other side of the world? She hadnt even been here one full hour and she was already homesick, she wanted to be with her son, her family, the safety of Chicago. Why did she jump on the plane (after three months of deliberation) just to scratch an itch that she wasnt even sure could be cured? Alright, alright, my dear, Natalya said. Get a grip, its only two weeks. Ill get a lot of fresh air, fresh food. She had irritable bowels, Pepto-Bismol was her best friend. And meet a slew of new people. I already have contacts in Theodie, unless of course they are marauding murderers, and I have all of my reservations, GPS, maps, radio walkie talkie, cell phone, emergency kit on me. I am still in civilization, just another form of civilization. A white, Irish civilization. But thats okay, I am a

survivor, she said and wiped her tears away, watching the traffic. Watch the traffic, ol girl, wrong side of the road is right here, she sang in a light voice. You arent going to see guys with gold teeth, dreadlocks, girls with big booties here and an Asian hair store on every street corner. This is Ireland. This is what you wanted. This is what you needed. It was on the last sentence that she knew, this is what she needed, no matter her apprehension, her fear, she was doing something for herself. She was following that wander lust spirit that perhaps knew no bounds. No matter in this one thing she would not regret. Following the traffic, she pulled out of the parking lot, she wished she had a dog, or at the very least a cat to keep her company, but there was no one except the stilted, electronic voice of her GPS system. Within thirty minutes she had left the city of Dublin and was on a country road, the only road that led to Theodie, it would be a two hour ride going roughly 45 miles

to Theodie, it would be a two hour ride going roughly 45 miles per hour and dotted along with small Thomas Kinkaid like villages and baying sheep and sleepy cows. This is fun, she said, switching on her wiper blades, shed brought a sturdy umbrella at the airport in Chicago. It was still daylight but the clouds rolled in and she dropped her speed to 35 and prayed to herself and sang David Bowie and Bing Crosby, Little Drummer Boy and finally, gratefully made it to Theodie Village, Population 1,928. At the intersection the village upon the cobble stone street she turned left, using her song to keep her on the wrong side of the road, within seconds she pulled up to the only bed and breakfast within thirty miles, a quaint two story cottage with soft ivy growing up its rough hewn fireplace surrounded by a picturesque fence and an English garden. Absolutely, lovely, she said to herself, pulling into the small driveway. When shed seen the cottage online and did a

background check on the proprietors she knew this place was perfect for her needs. If only she knew what her needs were. Taking out her luggage in the back she made her way to the cobblestoned pathway to the heavy oak door, ringing the doorbell once and knocking briskly twice. Hello she began as the door opened and was met with the excited scream of a matronly grandmother type of 70 plus years old, who pulled her inside with cheer. Ms. Amon! Ms. Amon! Mums you are a pretty lass! You made it home, she exclaimed, hugging the startled Natalya with such strength, she instantly felt her acid reflux act up and became slightly nauseated. Mrs. Sheridan? Natalya asked, smiling and poking out her hand to get a nice, standard American handshake. Mrs. Sheridan ignored Natalyas hand, exclaimed some more and gushed. An actual American, we never get Americans this far to the coast, not since the winter of 2004, bad storm it was.

They were doing a documentary of one of the coast lines above and got stranded. Loud beasts they were, I know you wont be like such. Such a tiny thing you are, we shall fatten you up, she exclaimed, pulling Natalya deeper into the warm cottage that smelled of yeasty breads and cinnamon. Oh, no, no, Natalya said, the last thing she needed was to gain a pound. She spent the better part of the last 18 years fighting her weight and for once it seemed to finally be under control, 114 pounds precisely, size 4 on a good day, size 6 on one of her many bloated days. Im not much of an eater, she said. I have stomach problems, she disclosed. Dont worry about feeding me, she said. Hogwash, simply hogwash, come, come, you and our other residents shall get along just famously, an older couple from England, they shall riddle you with tales, tales tales. And my hubby, the old goon, where is that man? She said, swatting Natalya inside the warm and cheery kitchen, where pots bubbled

Natalya inside the warm and cheery kitchen, where pots bubbled on the stove and the smell of bread made Natalyas mouth water in anticipation. But bread as on her no list and included on that no list was sugars, artificial anything, fried foods, preservatives, prepackaged foods, alcoholic drinks, chocolate, citrus fruits, most dairy and any vegetable that was a relative to the onion. As if hed heard her an old man of no more than five feet five swept inside in a gray cardigan, thick corduroy pants and heavy boots. Look! Look, ol man, its Ms. Natalya, from America! Mrs. Sheridan yelled excitedly. I was just telling her there hadnt been an American here since the winter ofof- Fall, The old man interrupted a cheery look in his silver eyes. Of 2004, she said as if he hadnt spoken. 2003, he ended, coming around the heavy block

table and smiling warmly. Let me have a look at you, bonnie lass, ye are, Ive not seen the likes of one such as you, why, look at your skin, just like honey from the bees we have, he said, and because he said it so excitedly and with such enthusiasm Natalya took no offense, but smiled and blushed and said thank you. And your eyes, beautiful brown and so large, they are melting in my soul already, he said. Shes a blusher, Mr. Sheridan said, or as he was affectionately known in the community Natalya found out later, Old Man. Rosy cheeks to go with golden skin, youll have the men here swooning in love, soon enough, he said. Och, with you, she has no need of these rascals. What she is needing is a little rest, isnt that so lovey? Youve got tired eyes, old souls eyes. Youve seen a lot, havent you? Natalyas eyes withdrew. No more than the normal person, she said. Thank you so much for opening your lovely home to me. I definitely do need some rest.

Ol man, take the lovey to bedroom three, closest to ours so that we can keep an eye out for her, we own the only bed and breakfast within thirty miles that have your very own loo and tub, hot water, any time of the day, shoo, now, supper is served in one hour, it gets dark here quickly and Im sure our other guests will be joining soon enough. Natalya gratefully followed Old Mans chattering form as he spoke about the running of the house, old tales around the villagers and how as an American shed be the talk of the town as he helped her with her luggage up the stairs. There is a good lot of people, here, Old Man said, unlocking the door to a beautiful bedroom with soothing blues, golds and greens. It contained one brass four poster bed, a winged dark blue chair that was so large and looked so soft Natalya couldnt wait to curl up in front of it, a beautiful gas fireplace, one large armoire and two small night stands. Through a door she saw a small but clean bathroom; the room was filled

a door she saw a small but clean bathroom; the room was filled with wild flowers that smelled so wonderfully sweet it was all Natalya could do from crawling into the bed and sleeping for a good twelve hours. Theyll watch after you as we watch after our own. And dont get to upset if they pepper you with questions or stare, weve never had a beauty like you with your coloring to our tiny town. Youll take some getting use to for sure, but Im sure all you have to do is bat those pretty brown eyes and smile with those lips and youll have everyone wanting to do your bidding. Natalya blushed again as she followed Old Man around the room as he showed her how to work the heat and the mechanisms to the toilet and tub. Gratefully, he handed her the key, said a cheery, adieu and reminded her that supper was in 45 minutes and Mrs. Sheridan was a stickler for schedules and not to be late. Natalya gratefully closed and locked the door behind

her, set her cell phone alarm clock set for 30 minutes and fell into a hard sleep. What is that blasted noise? Natalya said, opening up one tired eye to stare at her cell phone blinking crazily next to her. It took a full minute for her to become aware of where she was, what she was doing and who she was. Supper! She screamed excitedly, getting up, she had two minutes before supper. She shook off her coat, raced to the bathroom, pinched her cheeks, smelled her breath and rushed downstairs towards the sounds of many voices just as the clock struck seven in the hallway. Och! Theres the lassie, now, Ms. Natalya, Mrs. Sheridan exclaimed as a half dozen people looked interestedly at her. Natalya gulped but made no outward motions of surprise, smiling prettily as Mrs. Sheridan introduced her to the others in the room, while Old Man looked on interestedly.

Ms. Amon this is Mr. and Mrs. Hollings from London, she said as Natalya was introduced and shook a proper English handshake with a middle aged blond couple who looked so much alike Natalya wondered about inbreeding. And then we have two new borders, Mr. Ramona from Italy and Mr. Gaston from Greece, friends who are doing a summer tour of our lovely isles, a getaway from their rushed lives as Mrs. Sheridan trailed off. Brokers? She said. Yeesh, Natalya thought to herself, as cool as a cucumber on the outside. Mr. Ramona was absolutely gorgeous with olive colored skin, jet black curly hair and a tall six foot frame with beautiful green gray eyes. But Mr. Gaston was equally handsome with blond Adonis good looks and blue gray eyes. She wondered if they were gay. Stock brokers, Mr. Ramona said. We were just in America, New York, last month. There is no country like America, he said, eyeing the beautiful woman before him. He

America, he said, eyeing the beautiful woman before him. He tried to keep his handshake polite, respectful and looked towards his best friend, Nicholas who definitely had an interested eye on the pretty American. Nothing indeed, it does create the most beautiful women, Nicholas said smoothly, eliciting a small smile from Natalya from beautifully created full lips, lips women paid thousands of dollars to create. Hers were perfectly and undeniably natural. But why are we so formal? You can call me Nicholas, as Ramona is Antonio. Natalya. She introduced herself. It is lovely to meet you two, Natalya returned. She was here to get away from anything serious, not drop right smack dab in the midst of two gorgeous men. How long were you two staying? She asked, shed have to leave if she wouldnt be able to get peace. Men were the same no matter what country, what ethnicity, always looking for a quick roll in the sack.

Roughly three weeks, Antonio said, Give or take a couple of days, he said. Supper is ready, come, Mrs. Sheridan interrupted, shooing everyone into the next room. All homemade food, straight from the gardens, no worry about your stomach troubles here, my lass, Ms. Natalya, my food will have you as right as rain. Come, here, sit, she escorted everyone to their place seats, Natalya placed smack dab in the middle of Antonio and Nicholas to her dismay, the Hollings across from them and Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man at each end of the head of the table. The food was so mouth wateringly tempting Natalya nearly cried. There was the largest beef pot roast with baby onions, peeled carrots and fat golden roasted potatoes in a thick gravy, green snap beans, summer squash and piles of yeasty homemade dinner bread. Not only did Natalya nearly weep, her stomach turned twice and leaped with glee. We say grace, here, Mrs. Sheridan said. Hold

hands, you all and let us pray to the Lord, she said, and Natalyas hands were immediately placed into two warm and masculine mens hands, one impartial, Antonio, the other Nicholas, holding onto Natalyas a tad too long. When grace was said, the food was served, everyone taking warm plates and serving dishes, the men heaping piles of hardy food and Natalya because she didnt want to be an outsider placed delicate portions of every item onto her plate and said another prayer that her indigestion would not act up and first started slowly eating the green snap beans for her stomach to acclimate to the different food. It was with great relief that the dinner companions kept up such a steady stream of conversation around polite but full mouths and asked her so many questions that they didnt question her inability to not eat everything on her plate as everyone else did. You are from the south? Antonio asked, tilting his head questioningly. You have a lilt to your voice, soft, like

head questioningly. You have a lilt to your voice, soft, like music, one you do not hear from New Yorkers or the Pacific Northwest. Yes, Im originally from South Carolina but currently reside in Chicago. They spoke for long hours afterwards, eventually making their way into a parlor room, until Natalya, sleepy and biting back numerous yawns excused herself from the grouping. She was finally in her room, in bed after bathing, brushing her teeth and washing her face. She was so extremely exhausted and curled up in her bed after saying her prayers and making sure her door was locked and that one chair was placed under the doorknob in protection. For all she knew the town could be filled with vampires, even the sweet old Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man, but that didnt account for why they were out during the sunshine. Okay, maybe not vampires, but definitely werewolves. She placed a stout iron bar from the fireplace in her bed, after quickly cleaning it of ashes and held onto it. Her

her bed, after quickly cleaning it of ashes and held onto it. Her last thought before falling into a deep, dreamless sleep was, Dear Lord, please dont let this quaint and cute town of Theodie be infested with vampires and werewolves. Amen. Natalya didnt wake up until close to 1 p.m. the next day. Shed warned Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man she would be up late and they didnt have to leave her any food out, shed find something in the village. Theyd understood about the sleep, but promised there would be food waiting for her no matter the time. Natalya rubbed the grit from her eyes, smiling, she didnt feel like the emotional wreck she had as when shed landed yesterday, instead, with a warm sunshine trickling in through the lace curtains and her body feeling well rested and her stomach calm, she slowly made her way out of bed, there was absolutely no rush and called her son. He didnt seem interested in knowing about her

experience so far, and hurriedly rushed her off the phone, off to meet with friends. She then called her parents and left messages when they didnt answer, sent texts to her sisters and walked into the bathroom where she showered, brushed her teeth, washed her face, applied light make up and went back to her room to dress. She checked her blackberry for weather reports, a cool fifty five degrees and dressed in a black form fitting sweater and skinny leg indigo jeans with ballet black shoes. The house was quiet, she felt a bit of relief after the long hours shed put in socializing last night. Shed politely warded off Nicholas charms and Antonios less understated overtures. Shaking her head, she shrugged and made her way into the kitchen, as promised there was a plate of food underneath a cheese cloth with her name on a little card next to it. Eat little lassie, we need to fatten you up, out to the next city, to pick up some supplies, it said in what Natalya presumed to be Mrs.

Sheridans handwriting. Underneath a heavy cheese cloth was a thick sandwich with home made crusty bread, thick slices of cold cut beef and fresh lettuce straight from the garden. Next to it were large pickled cucumbers and sliced roasted potatoes. Natalya nearly wept. The pickled cucumber probably had sugar in it, so she didnt eat it. She did eat a few slices of the potatoes, found some fresh fruit and whistled for Marshmallow, the Great Dane dog who had to be pushing two hundred pounds that Natalya had briefly met last night. Natalya smiled at the large Great Dane. Here you go, girl, she said, giving the sandwich to the dog, which wolfed it down in two large bites. Perfect, dont let Mrs. Sheridan know, shell be ever so hurt if I dont eat her food. Its not that I dont want to, Lord knows I do, but I have so many food allergies Ill probably spend the rest of the vacation in the bathroom.

bathroom. The dog nodded as if she knew what Natalya was talking about. Natalya laughed, hugging the dogs large head. Good girl. She wrote a note on the back of the card. Thank you for lunch, it was delicious, the potatoes had been really good. Im going to explore. Be back late, dont worry about dinner for me, Ill pick up something in the village. She knew Mrs. Sheridan would ignore the last sentence, the sweet womans new mission in life was to pack on the pounds to Natalyas petite form. Grabbing her coat and rubbing the dogs large head one last time, she jumped in her car seat, free of her cell phone and throwing her GPS in the back seat, she pulled out her road map in the weak two p.m. sunshine, smiling in joy. Im in Ireland and I am going to enjoy every single second of it. Im going to laugh, live and enjoy. She promised herself.

Taking the main road outside of the city, she traveled towards the coast, the windows down and letting the wind ruffle her hair. She almost wished that shed brought the dog with her and would ask Mrs. Sheridan for her companionship on her days out. The cliffs were not hard to find, following the various signs along the one lane road. Parking she walked towards the ocean cliff taking in the absolute beauty of the cliffs, the ocean before her and the greenery. There was nothing that could describe the smell of the fresh air, even her stomach felt calm. She smiled and took the trail down the cliff, being careful of the craggy and slippery rocks, the wind more chill here, but it did not matter to her, pulling out her slim digital camera, she started shooting pictures as soon as she got on the sandy beach, trying to grasp the beauty before her, but she knew she wouldnt be able to. You wont be able to capture the beauty, a deep

Irish tinged voice said not more than ten feet from her. Oh, oh, she gasped, surprised and instantly on alarm. Looking up to glance at a mana very handsome man in nothing but jogging shorts and tennis shoes and sweat now drying on his hardened chest and six pack stomach. Oh, Lawd. Uh, uh, she said, taking in crystal clear aquamarine blue eyes in a lightly tanned face under a head of unruly dark brown hair with auburn highlights and a three day scruffy beard that didnt hide the hard jaw line and high cheekbones and beautifully curved lips. She tried to shake her head of his glorious vision, lost her thought process, stared at him, looked at the ocean and turned around and didnt say a word. She hurriedly made her way up the craggy cliffs not taking in the slippery rocks and before she knew it slipped, tried to grab her holding but the rocks were too slippery and she fell more than ten feet, before all became dark.

more than ten feet, before all became dark. Her head hurt, thats all she knew and it was dark, she didnt know where she was, but she did remember why her head hurt, shed fallen about ten feet onto hard packed sandy beach. Just to get away from Mr. Bare Chest Irish Hot Stud Muffin. She didnt know Ireland created men like that. She was hoping Ireland didnt create men like that. Owww, she said, placing a hand up to still the throbbing pain in her head and scrunching her eyes. Shhh, lassie, ease your eyes, a deep voice said. She knew that voice, Mr. Bare Chest Irish Hot Stud Muffin. My head hurts, she stated the obvious. Nah, lass, does it? He laughingly chided. Ya shocked ten gray hairs in meye did. I said to me self, must be an American. Only type in the world to leap before ye look. She wanted to laugh, she couldnt argue with the

obvious, instead, with eyes still closed she pursed her lips. I need to be at a hospital for a MRI, I might have a concussion or hemorrhage. Ah, no lass, you are as right as the day is long, your body took most of the fall, your head landed on a patchy piece of grass. You dont know that, I think I should go to a hospital. Would it help ye, if I told ye I was a medical man? He asked back. She had yet to open her eyes. Yes, she said quietly. I am a medical man, he said. Where did you do your residency? She asked tartly back. School of Hard Knocks, He responded. This time she laughed, she couldnt help it, the pain wasnt as intense. Slowly, gradually she opened her eyes, taking

in the beauty of him. He sat in a chair close to her bed, leaning over her with worry in his eyes, as she opened hers, he leaned back slowly. Thats a good lassie, he said. Nice and easy. Where are we? An old fishers hut not far from where ye fell, he said, smiling. You carried me? I asked me lady mermaid friends to carry you, he said teasingly. Ye, I carried you, you need to gain some weight, youre too skinny. Jeez, was it everyones mission to get her fat. You wouldnt say that if I was 190 pounds and trust me, Ive been there, she said snippily. He smiled charmingly. The more to snuggle up to on a cold Irish night with, he returned flippantly. Only Americans who like skinny, he said. Here, the more meat the better,

who like skinny, he said. Here, the more meat the better, keeps ye warm on a blustery Irish night. Isnt Mrs. Sheridan feeding you, lass? You know me? She asked. He laughed. Ye became quite the talk of the town in one night, he said. Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man Sheridan are quite besides their selves at the beautiful American. I expected angels wings and a halo, lassbut ye do have a penchant for flying. She laughed again, she couldnt help it. He put her at immediate ease. And plus hed carried her and watched over her to safety, her clothes were still on, she didnt feel violated. Without asking, he pushed back a lock of her hair that had fallen over her forehead. Her breath stilled as they stared at each other - it was a long moment before he pulled his hand back. He was no longer bare-chested; instead an old gray sweat shirt with Oxford emblazoned on it covered the golden

chest shed viewed earlier. How did you know I was the American? She asked. Everyone knows everyone in this town, lass, didnt ye know? Ye are an outsider, to say the least. I know. Why here? Why not Dublin? He asked. I picked it by chance, she said and could say no more. Had this been all by chance? An American, beautiful, what are ye running away from to travel to our side of the world? He asked. She couldnt say. A large silence penetrated the small cabin. It was he who broke it. Can ye try to sit up, lass? Yes, she said quietly. He helped her as she gingerly sat up. Nausea? Dizzy? He asked. Shaking her head, she responded. No, head just

hurts. She said. Good, lass, dont move just yet, take ye time. He said. What time is it? She asked. A little past three and thirty, me lass, he responded, glancing at a heavy duty, no nonsense black watch on his wrist. Oh, she said. She hadnt been unconscious for long, less than twenty minutes, another good sign. How do ye feel? He asked. Alright, just head, hurts. Im going to have to take ye home with me, he replied in a matter of fact voice. You shouldnt be alone for the next twenty four hours. Im, Im fine, Im sure Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man can watch over me, she said. He snorted. The old folks bed time is 9:00, lass. And Ive seen the other guests; I wouldnt trust them to do right,

And Ive seen the other guests; I wouldnt trust them to do right, least of all the two pretty boys. Laughing, she stared at him. They are nice enough, she said. He looked at her as if questioning her sanity. Playboys, he spit out. I know the type. She agreed. Maybe youre one, she taunted back. Id be dead first, he said in disgust. You stay with me tonight, youll be safe, Ill let Mrs. Sheridan know. She knew he would. She didnt question his integrity and this was a woman who lived in a violent city and whod come first hand more than once to crazies. Alright, she finally said. Before she could say another word he swung her in his arms and she yelped, wrapping her arms in surprise around his neck. You could have warned me, she squealed. And miss your shriek, lassie, never, he said, the deep

laughter rumbling through his chest and setting her body on fire. Burying her face in his neck, she didnt respond, shed never been in this position, didnt know how to respond and couldnt think of another place on this world where she wanted to be. You keep your eyes slightly closed, the sun is finally out, he said and she did as suggested, realizing that his breathing never changed even though he walked more than 100 feet. Neither said a word. Finally he settled her in a small vehicle, shutting the door behind her. What about my car? She asked. Ill have my uncle and aunt pick it up and drop it back off to the Sheridans. He said. Okay, she said. She remembered the car rental womans family members. Do you know, umwhat were their namesGarrison and Annah? Someone told me to look them up. That is my aunt and uncle; hes the priest for the

town. Of course, she should have known. Everyone was related to everyone. I met your relativeshe worked in Dublin, at the rental counter, she said as he bucked in her seat and reclined it slightly for her comfort before starting the small vehicle. Leah, he said. My uncles cousin, my second cousin, how was she lass? As sweet as sunshine, Natalya returned. So is my uncle and aunt, he said, driving the five stick with surprising clarity and ease. Most of the family is, with only a few bad seeds, he said. Are you one of those bad seeds? She asked teasingly. Instead of laughter or some smart comment his look instead darkened and he shrugged. No worse than the best no best than the worse. He said.

best than the worse. He said. Are you going to murder me after raping me and use my skin as clothing? She asked calmly. It was his turn to squeal like a girl as he stared at her in shock, nearly running off the road before right siding the car. No! No! He said. Me God! Ghastly, absolutely ghastly, he couldnt stop his sputtering. She thought she heard something under his breath like, Americans, Hollywood, movies, crazies. She wanted to laugh but her head was hurting more. Instead she closed her eyes listening to the hum of the vehicle and his small ranting under his breath. Lass, how is ye head? He asked gently. It hurts, she said. Itll feel well soon enough, he promised and it took him no more than twenty five minutes to turn into a picturesque little dark red and brown-bricked cottage, with ivy covering most of its front and a garden alongside it. It was so absolutely

most of its front and a garden alongside it. It was so absolutely lovely she could do nothing except gasp. You live here? She said as he parked and turned the car off. Aye, he responded. Its beautiful, she said. Aye, he said but he wasnt looking at his home, he was staring at her. Dont move, he said, rushing out of his side to gently pull her from the car, once again in his arms. She wanted to say that she could probably walk, but instead kept her mouth shut, once again wrapping her arms around his neck and burying her head in his shoulders, more relaxed than shed ever felt even with a pounding headache. It didnt go unnoticed by him as he held her more tightly to him, her scent intoxicating. She smelled of lemons, strawberries, and coconut and so sweet he wanted to lick her, every inch of her. He calmed himself down; he hadnt felt like

thiscouldnt even remember when. Once hed opened his door, he regretfully placed her upon one of the heavy leather seats that dotted his sitting room. Thank you, she said, smiling at him and he felt someone kick his stomach, the air seemed to whoosh out of his stomach. He nodded and quickly placed a sofa blanket over her prone body. Stay here, Ill stroke a fire, ye must be cold, he said, and did just that. She watched his movements, efficient, brisk, no nonsense before she realized she didnt even know his name. What is your name? She asked in curiosity. Gabe, he responded. Gabriel McKenna, he said. And you are Natalya Amon, the American. Yes, she said, smiling shyly. I guess I am. Stay here; Ill make you a cup of tea and call Mrs. Sheridan and my uncle. She nodded as he made his way directly opposite of the small by comfortable living room, a

cheery fire starting, seconds later she heard the sounds of rain drops while she he talked on the phone. Uncle, is ye, he said and his Irish accent deepened a lot more, many of the words he said nearly incomprehensible. She heard vehicle, accident, American. He quickly made another call, to who she presumed was Mrs. Sheridan because she heard a female screeching worry over the phone as Gabe calmed the elderly lady down. Nay, nay, stop with ye, he said chiding the lady gently but in a loving matter. Lassie is safe, he said and then laughed at something she said while she heard the sounds of pots banging and the smell of gas briefly. Chow, he finally ended after a five minute conversation and in that time, the kettle whistled for the hot water. Natalya smiled, she didnt know why she felt so safe, or protected, even with this utterly complete stranger. If anything happened to her it was obvious the whole town would quickly

happened to her it was obvious the whole town would quickly know about it within moments if not hours. Bonnie, how do ye feel? He asked, bringing her a hot cup of tea that smelled of jasmine, lemon and English grey. My head doesnt hurt as much, she admitted. Would he drive her back to the Sheridans if so? She didnt want to go. She wanted to be near him, learn his secrets, and learn who he was. She wanted to know him. As she gratefully took the tea, he watched her before nodding abruptly. I have to take a shower, give me ten, he said and walked quickly away. She didnt understand his abrupt leaving, watching his form stalk down a hall and up a small and narrow set of stairs. Okay, she said to the empty room. He couldnt take another moment in her presence, he knew he was going to kiss her, he had to get himself under control, and otherwise he would have kissed a defenseless

woman whod just had a head injury. The very thought was a douse of cold water, his aunt and uncle raised him with integrity, no matter how much hed strayed from the path, he always found himself back on it and no matter how much he wished otherwise. Once in his room, he quickly took out a black plain shirt, jeans, underwear and socks, throwing them on the bed while going into the hallway to the only bathroom of the one hundred year old cottage. When hed bought the place it should have been condemned, crumbling upon his ears, but he rebuilt every stone, every brick and every wood floor until not only was it more than hospitable it was restored to its former glory of one hundred years ago with a few modern convenience, one being the only bathroom in the house, which although small was more than sound with a claw foot tub but also the kitchen with modern appliances and a large wooden cutting block he used as his dining table. Jumping in the claw foot tub he blasted the shower on

hot, quickly and efficiently washing his body, not knowing what she was doing, but imaging that she was snooping around as Americans were want to do. He didnt have much love for Americans although hed lived in New York for more than a year. He never knew a bunch of seemingly smart people work so hard to destroy their selves through extreme starvation or overeating, cynical, self absorbed people in his life. He avoided the country like the plague and had been over joyed when his self imposed stay had come to an end. Within nine minutes hed showered, dressed and was making his way back downstairs, a towel still in his hands as he dried his hair. She did not look as if shed moved from the chair, her cup of tea still in her hands, half empty, or was it full, staring at the mantle before turning, gifting him with another one of her beautiful smiles and pearly white, small teeth. Definitely not European teeth, he thought to himself. Nine minutes and forty eight seconds, she began.

Nine minutes and forty eight seconds, she began. Amazing. There is no way I could take a shower so quickly, she ended, smiling again. Especially not if I was washing ye, he teased, and watched her blush, amazed that Old Man was right, it was as if she was made of honey and roses. You shouldnt say such, she said softly. I cannot think of a sarcastic remark, she admitted, It must be because of the head, she said, tapping it softly, It doesnt hurt as much, in fact, its fading fast, she said. Good, though Ill still watch ye, he said. I have hit my own head enough to know 24 hours begins are the most crucial, he ended lamely. He didnt want her to go back to the Sheridans house, not now, not anytime. He wanted her next to him, with him and nearly scared himself into a silent seizure at the realization. Hed shrugged his shoulders in nonchalance when hed heard the general gossip in town that the American had

arrived, a pretty little brown skinned creature with skin like honey and cheeks that blushed like roses, hed rolled his eyes as more than one of his extended family members either by marriage or by blood all huddled around at the bakery, the pub, the library and any other place where huddling was allowed and spoke in gasps and whispers. Very few people in the village had ever seen a real live American, and not only was she American, she was African American. Yet, looking at her now, he couldnt exactly say if she was a regular African American. Her skin was the color of honey, medium brown, her eyes were large, a perfect hue of brown, warm and electric, beautifully shaped, wide eyes under perfectly arched eyebrows, her nose was straight but looked Ethiopian or Native American, her lips full, perfectly curved and pink. She had a small frame, couldnt be an inch or two over five feet with large breasts that the sweater could not hide and the nicest, most round bottom hed ever seen, hed nearly been

shocked silly when shed whipped away from him on the beach as he got a look of her arse. They didnt make arses like that in Ireland. And even though short, her legs were long and lean and he got fidgety again but offset it with grabbing his mug of tea which had cooled down sufficiently for him to drink. She was petite and he hadnt lied when he said she was too skinny, he wanted to see her plump and smiling that gorgeous smile at him and touching him with her long elegant fingers in all the right places. She was very pretty, would be considered beautiful by some, merely pretty by others, cute by a fewer. But what she did have that could not be questioned by any man on any continent was an incredible sex appeal, understated, quiet, sultry, soft, warm and cool at the same time. If he had to answer her ethnicity he would have said, Ethiopian or Egyptian perhaps even Arab. He didnt know and for some reason wanted to know, even though the ethnicity of others were the farthest things from

even though the ethnicity of others were the farthest things from his mind. Hed lived in just about every major city in the world: Sydney, Tokyo, London, New York, Quebec, Johannesburg, people were people no matter where he traveled, for the most part untrustworthy no matter the color of skin. He wanted to figure out all of her secrets, including why shed decide to stay two weeks with the Sheridans at one of Irelands smallest coastal towns. Where are your people from? He finally asked, settling in the seat opposite of her in front of the fire, less than two feet separated them, but it was two too many, he wanted to pull her into his lap, touch her from head to toe with his hands and follow it with his lips. Hmm? She asked. What are you? He simplified it, maybe she had been hit harder than he thought. Well, what kind of question is that? She sputtered out,

no one had every bluntly asked that. People assumed that she was Ethiopian, African American or Arab depending on her hair style, what she wore or where she was. In Chicago she was African American, in New York she was Arab, and in Seattle she was Ethiopian. Im interested, Ethiopian? He asked. Partly, she said surprised that hed at least guessed some of her ancestry correctly. Ethiopian, sub Saharan African, and a dash of Irish. She finally said. Nodding, he smiled. Ahhvisiting the mother landI see, he said, making her laugh. In a way, yes, she said. You never know, we may be related, she said. I pray not, otherwise I wouldnt be able to do this, he said, kneeling beside her chair, placing her legs on either side of his knelt body and pulling the mug out of her hand, placing it on

the floor. He didnt know why he did what he did, only that as soon as the mug was on the floor, he was cupping her face in his large, warm hands and bringing her lips to his and time stood still. She had wanted thisthis kiss, the touch of his lips upon hers as soon as shed heard his voice upon the beach turned and viewed him and it wasnt because he was so handsome, shed known a lot of handsome menit was simply because something deep within her had felt the world tilt crazily around her before righting itself once shed locked her eyes upon his. And yes, it seemed so very sappy, so utterly Lifetime Movie like she would question the sanity of any woman telling her such a thing, she questioned her own sanity and blamed the knocking of her head upon the sandy beach. But she knew that her head injury was a cop out, shed felt him deep within her as soon as shed set foot upon that cliff, overlooking the beauty of what was Ireland and knowing the reason why shed come had not been

Ireland and knowing the reason why shed come had not been merely a chance of fate it had been predestined. This man before her would change her life forever and she was scared and frightened and exhilarated and excited all at once. And so when he knelt between her legs and touched her thighs and cupped her face so lovingly she didnt question his touch. Didnt pretend to be shocked by maidenly delicacies, this was the last man she would ever kiss, she knew it deep within her, no matter what, no matter the hurt or betrayal, the love or laughter, he was the last man for her. They kissed and the world ended, she moaned, wrapping her arms around his neck as he placed his hands on her beautifully round bottom and pulled her closer to him until they touched, not as before, when he was protecting and caring for her, but now so differently in want and in need, in desire. She moaned, his tongue touching her lips, asking for permission that she gladly gave, opening her mouth to feel his tongue

penetrate hers, dueling, stroking, licking. She moaned again, deep in her throat and heard his answering moan and her skin itched to be touched by his, and she rocked against him to give him permission and it was that motion that doused him in reality. Lassie, he groaned out, gritting his teeth, what had he done, hadnt he lived by standards and integrity for the most part of his life. He felt like a slimy bastard taking advantage of her after her injury. Lassie, Im, he wanted to say he was sorry, but could not bring himself to do such as he pulled away from her, staring into her beautiful sexy brown eyes. I shouldnt have, ye just injured yourself, ye trusted mefor that, for abusing your trust, for that I am so sorry, but for kissing yefor touching yenever. Please, she pleaded. I dont want you to stop, I know what I am doing, she said before wrapping her arms back around his neck and kissing his lips tenderly and gently until he couldnt take any more and picked her up as he stood as she

wrapped her legs around his waist and he didnt have one intelligent thought, until he heard the doorbell ring. Again and again and again. He swore, she screamed against his lips and slowly unwrapped her legs around his waist as she slid her petite curvy body down every inch of his body and he swore again. The door, he gritted. You should get the door, she said, trying to breath, trying to undo her arms around his neck. I know, he said and kissed her again, stamping his mark upon her, glad when she smiled and hating when she finally unloosed her arms from his neck. He swore but finally was able to control himself and walked out of the sitting room where she gratefully collapsed back upon the heavy leather seat, her legs quivering and shivers of desire coursing through her body. She placed the sofa blanket over her legs but could not manage to pick up the mug;

blanket over her legs but could not manage to pick up the mug; her hands were trembling too badly. Natalya, this is my uncle and aunt, Garrison and Annah, and their daughter, my cousin, Felicia, shell be staying the night, he gritted out, he was angry, but reserved after the brief conversation with his aunt and uncle at the front door as he hoped Natalya didnt overhear their brief Gaelic conversation. He couldnt read her facial expression, if she was relieved, irritated or exasperated. Felicia was the first to break the silence; she was nearly fifteen years older than him, but the baby of Garrison and Annahs six children. Shed been matronly since his first memory of her, always wiping his nose, making sure he ate well and keeping the non relative female villagers out of his hair when hed returned back to Theodie to settle for good. Shed also never married, far from a busy body, she was perhaps the sweetest person hed ever known, with the spirit of an angel. Natalya, ah, lass, what a bonnie lass, this is, I see why

Natalya, ah, lass, what a bonnie lass, this is, I see why everyone is in such arms, she said, hugging the petite woman to her whod stood upon the entrance of the group of people. Ayeee! Annah screamed in excitement as Natalya jumped in shock. Gabe should have warned Natalya that Annah was a screamer, her small, slightly plump sixty year old frame, shorter than Natalya, jumped up and down excitedly before grasping Natalya, screaming again and hugging her. Natalyas eyes were so wide; he thought they would fall out of her eyes. She nodded her head as Annah spewed Gaelic and jumped around before his uncles booming Gaelic voice interrupted; dropping random English that Natalya tried to follow but was clueless. The family erupted in waves of excited chatter, Natalya stared from one person to another before looking at Gabe helplessly, it was he who finally stilled the excited Gaelic voices, ushering his aunt and uncle out amidst lilting voices. Felicia

ushered Natalya back to the leather chair. Ooh, bon lassie, sit, sit, you must be tired, after a head fall, no sleep for ye for twenty four hours, she said. Felicia is a registered nurse, recently retired, Gabe interrupted. Felicia, tea? He said. Aye, laddie, she said, more of a mother to him after Aunt Annah than his own mother was. But the thought of his mother brought a bitter taste to his mouth so he shut out the thought while preparing a cup of tea for Felicia. He heard Felicias lilting voice chatter nearly non stop and a rare word or two from Natalya. If not for the interruption he knew that he and Natalya would have been lovers by now, he would have known every inch of her body, laid her out before the fireplace and kissed every golden curve. Yet, it was not to be. Obviously God was still actively aware of whenever Gabe would sin. His aunt and uncle had prayed it over him at the youngest age.

He heard his cousin ask Natalya medical questions to assess her injury; Felicia had bandaged many of his boyhood injuries. He trusted her more than he did a regular doctor, seemingly long moments later; Felicia lifted her voice for Gabe to hear. She seems well, laddie, she said and heard Natalya say something but her voice was too low for Gabe to hear. He smiled he loved her light, sexy voice. The way shed whispered his name in his ear while they were kissing, the sound of her sighs. Hed need to take a cold shower again. Finally, the water was boiled, he turned off the stove and prepared the mug impatiently, trying to figure out a way to get rid of Felicia or at least sneak more kisses from Natalya. Here ye go, he said, interrupting Felicias never ending litany of half Gaelic and half English as Natalya nodded politely and once again pointedly looked at him for help. Do you wan to lay down? Ye can have me bed, lass, he said innocently.

he said innocently. I think so, she said standing up. I know, no sleep, maybe if I read a book, in the quiet, my headache will recede somewhat, she said standing up. It was so nice to meet you, she said to Felicia who bobbed up and down. No sleeping, Ill be up in five to check on ye, lassie, she said with a pointed glance towards Gabe. Gabe smiled innocently, shrugging his shoulder while escorting Natalya upstairs. Following her upstairs, his eyes stayed glued on her beautiful round bottom unable to break his stare. A Gaelic voice interrupted him and Felicia looked at him accusingly. Youre a good laddie, ye are, she warned, her arms crossed. His smile dropped, he followed Natalya up the rest of the stairs, his eyes glued to somewhere around her waist. His room and the bathroom were the only rooms upstairs. She went towards the bedroom, taking in the heavy

wood furniture, the handmade quilt over the king size bed and standard two pillows, it had a wood fireplace and one heavy leather seat in front of it, there was a wall of books on one side and a large armoire on the other side, a chest next to the leather chair with an opened book. She picked it up interestingly, not asking for permission. The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde? She asked laughingly. This is one of my favorite books. Can I save your page and read? She asked settling down on the chair as Gabe opened up the armoire and pulled out a small throw blanket that smelled of cedar. He placed the blanket over her legs and she touched his hand and stared in his eyes. Thank you for taking care of me, she whispered enticingly and kissed him softly on the lips. He didnt stop her, didnt want to, but once again knelt next to her seat, delving into her mouth, loving the taste of her, breathing heavily he tore his mouth away in jagged pain. Lass,

he ground out, he couldnt stop himself. We have three minutes, shell be up here in three minutes, he warned lifting her from the chair and placing her before the roaring fire. She nodded as he sunk his hips between her opened legs as she moaned, which he kissed away, kissing her neck, pulling her sweater up to touch her flat golden stomach, her warm skin, to her lace bra, her breasts as full and as large as he knew they would be. He kissed one, then the other licking them. One minute left, he said, going back to her lips, kissing her, loving the taste while drawing her back up in a seated position, pulling her shirt down lifting her to the chair without breaking the kiss. He heard Felicias footsteps on the stairs and reluctantly pulled his lips away from Natalyas, placing the blanket over her lap, he handed her the fallen novel, kissed her one last time on her lips and turned towards the door just as Felicia walked in. Ah, there is the lass, and the lad, ye gentleman, she said pointedly. He nodded, turning away from Felicia; he was as

said pointedly. He nodded, turning away from Felicia; he was as hard as a rock. Ill start supper, he said and jogged downstairs as he heard Felicia began her litany of light Gaelic conversation. He placed an already created dish of chicken pot pie in the oven, prepared by his aunt yesterday, turning on the oven and rolling his eyes. Felicia wasnt leaving, hed probably sleep on the couch and hed pull out the cot for Felicia. He wouldnt be able to make love to Natalya tonight. Maybe, maybe it was for the best, but he didnt feel that way. He wanted her more than hed ever wanted anyone in his life. The very thought of not seeing her every single day for the next two weeks while she was in Theodie caught him in the stomach. He had never felt so strongly towards a female, not for a long time. Hed been celibate for a while; he hadnt looked or even wanted to attempt a relationship. Until her.

He didnt quite know what to expect on his usual morning run. Only that the sun was surprisingly shining, rare on the coast of Ireland, and his head had been clearer than it had been in weeks. And hed seen a little figure bobbing down the cliff and slowed checking out the pretty woman, smiling, this then was the American that had everyone in the village up in arms from the postal mate to the librarian to the innkeepers. The American. He wasnt a gossip and hadnt given her a second thought instead focusing on adding the finishing touches to the last shingle of his roof and going for his jog and suddenly hed wished he had listened to the gossip because upon the first view of her his breath had caught in his throat. Hed made his comment, seen her twirl towards him and then take off like a bat out of hell. Then all thought had left him when hed glanced at her arse and had been shocked senseless when shed fallen off the slippery cliff.

Shaking his head, he checked on the potpie, it was not quite five thirty and hed had a busy day scheduled of chopping down a dead tree in the back garden, laying down the foundation for a small green house and then helping his uncle repair some benches at the church. He wondered if she would be up to joining him for the day, she could sit while he worked, they could talk and shed be able to get plenty of fresh air. He jogged up lightly up the stairs and Felicia and Natalya continued a conversation, laughing. Och, now, pretty lasses, the two of you, he said, interrupting them during a lull in their conversation. Such a flirt, ye are, Felicia said, waving her hands. Only with ye, beautiful, he returned, giving her a kiss on the cheek, he really did love her, she was closer to him than a sister or mother, always ready to listen, giving sage and sound advise and he in return had given her enough money where she

advise and he in return had given her enough money where she never had to work again, but that didnt stop her from making her rounds around the neighborhood as the village nurse. The chicken pie is all warmed, but I wanted to know if Natalya could come outside with me as I chopped down the old blackened tree in the backyard and worked on the foundation for the greenhouse. Oh, I would love to, Natalya cried out, nearly hopping in her seat to escape while Felicia looked on with a wry smile as she sat on the edge of the bed. I see itll be hard to keep the two of ye away from each other, she said matter of fact, not ignoring the blushes that covered both their faces. Is it alright, Felicia? Natalya asked, as sweet and nice as Felicia was, Natalya only had eyes and ears for Gabe, her mind upon what carried his attention downstairs, while she and Felicia made small talk.

Let us eat supper first and then the two of you may go, Felicia said, ushering the two downstairs where she took over serving Gabe and Natalya as they said grace and Natalya not questioning the food before her and took a bite of the flakey buttery crust in the savory chicken pot pie and nearly wept at the flavor filled taste of moist chicken, gravy, peas, onions, celery, carrots and potatoes. This is so delicious, Natalya said. Who cooked this? Mother, dearie, Felicia said, smiling. Im glad ye like it, we need to fatten ye up, it gets too cold here in the nights to be so skinny, she said. And for once Natalya did not argue, simply nodding and eating the entire plate of food along with fresh snap peas. She did shake her head to seconds as Gabe bundled her in her coat and found some gloves for her, before escorting her outside thru the back door while Felicia shooed them away as and he pulled on his own thick sweater.

The cold and fresh air took her breath away as did the touch of Gabes hand upon the small of her back. How do ye feel? He asked. Nodding she turned towards him, smiling softly. As right as rain, she admitted, she barely even remembered the fall, her head no longer hurt. Good, he said, and escorted her twenty yards through a heavily green garden before reaching the back end, settling her on a small bench close to a rotted and dark tree. What happened to the tree? Fungus, it comes and goes through Ireland, I should have chopped the tree down last week, but didnt have the time. Shrugging off his sweater, he laid it next to her and picked up an ax shed not even seen and began chopping the tree down. She didnt mind that as he chopped, they couldnt speak, so she enjoyed how the shirt formed to his biceps how the sweat glistened on his brow and his muscles flexed.

the sweat glistened on his brow and his muscles flexed. This was one gorgeous man. It took him less than thirty minutes to chop the tree down, bundle it on the plastic tarp and place it at the edge of the shed, well away from any other trees as she sat huddled on the stone bench, her hands delved deep in her pockets making smoke rings in the cold and frigid air. Are you not cold? She asked, when shed left Chicago it had been a nice and balmy seventy degrees. No, lass, ye are? He asked glancing up worriedly where he was leveling the ground, squinting at her from his knelt position upon the dirt. He took her breath away, his gorgeous wolf like aquamarine eyes staring at her under tanned and healthy skin. A little, she said nodding and he stood, dusting the dirt from his hands and walked towards her bench, blocking the setting sun out momentarily before settling next to her, wrapping

hard and muscular arms around her in which she was immediately encased in hot heat and laid her head on his shoulders as he rubbed her arms softly and lazily, his chin resting on top of her head. Im sorry, she said softly, her hand resting on his broad chest; she could feel and hear the sound of his heartbeat, steady and strong. I am taking you away from your work, a fine guest I am, disturbing you as such, she said. The work will get done when it gets done, its not going anywhere, he said glad that she interrupted him; even though hed been intent on the work hed definitely not forgotten her as she sat just five yards from him. He felt her nod against his chest and chin and a lazy smile pulled his lips. They didnt speak for long moments and he surprisingly dozed feeling replete and comfortable with her small curvy body against his. He awoke with a start, but she didnt move, glancing down he was surprised to see her eyes closed and by the look of the sun more than an hour had passed.

Lass, he said gently, she moaned softly snuggling closer to his warmth in her sleep. Lass, wake up, he said, kissing her gently on the top of her head and she moaned again before her eye lashes fluttered opened. Hmm? She said sleepily trying to snuggle back into his warmth but he sat her up straighter, kissing her cheek. Fine host I make, having ye sleep on me, he said, before bringing his lips to hers. Oh, she moaned softly, smiling against his lips as she opened her mouth softly while he cupped her face gently, breathing in the beauty of her and it was she who pulled back softly and shakily laughing with small embarrassment. I didnt mean to fall asleep, you just felt so comfortableand warm. Nodding, he wrapped her close to him again. Ye, lassie, he said, breathing in her hair, we have to get your blood moving, how about a walk, before it gets any darker? He said. Nodding, she let him pull her up as he stood and he held

Nodding, she let him pull her up as he stood and he held her hand in his and led her through the garden as she followed slightly behind his tall form, her boots were comfortable 1 inch heels but he still stood a foot over her and she smiled to herself, secretly feeling safe, protected, cherished. They walked through his gardens and out his front gate upon the cobble stoned road, and he didnt let go of her hand, as he put his thick sweater back on, telling her the names of the different houses they passed, few and far in between, small, picturesque cottages with smoke coming out of the chimneys as Natalya peeked at familys sitting down for supper through large bay windows, the smell of food, the sea air and green grass heady upon her senses as dusk settled around them, the twinkle of stars shining brightly. I know a place ye should see, he said and she nodded, trusting him, so unlike her who looked for hidden agendas in everyone. She followed him back to his home, but he did not go inside, instead skirting around to his car, where hers had

inside, instead skirting around to his car, where hers had magically appeared and without letting go of her hand opened the driver door pulling out a blanket from the back. She didnt ask questions as they walked for more than a mile and it seemed to the edge of nowhere until they crested a hill and were met with the startling beautiful sight of a nearly full moon glowing upon the crashing waves beneath them, the sandy beach white against the darkness of the sky, the stars twinkling and she fell in love with Ireland. Its so beautiful, she said in awe taking in the beauty and wonder of Gods earth. Yea, I come up here to think nights, he said, pulling the blanket out and laying it on the ground. He settled down and held out his hand for her, she sat in between his legs, her back against his chest, and her hands on his knees. Tell me about your home, he said softly, rubbing her back softly, not understanding where this incessant need come

from to touch her. Im a southerner, born in South Carolina but raised in Chicago, she said with a soft smile. I went to Emory, she said. Emorythat is one of the best schools in the country, he said. I know, I majored in English, but work for the government, I got married after collegemy husband passed away, she said sadly and softly, I have a son. How old? He asked, his head cocked, intently listening to her soft voice. He just turned 13, she said. Im 34. Graduated at 21, married at 21, baby 9 months later. How did you meet your husband? We met on the train, he was a business man heading into work, I was heading to class. What was he like? Her tongue stilled before she finally smiled, sadly. Like

you. His hand stilled on her back. What do you mean? I trusted him instantly; we chatted the entire way downtown. He asked for my telephone number. I wasnt expecting him to call but I gave it to him anyway. He called me on his lunch break and asked me out that night. We spent every weekend together for the next 6 months. He proposed on our 6 month anniversary, we married the week after I graduated from college. How did he pass away, lass? When Iwhen I was going into labor, he was at work. He was rushing to the hospital to try to get there in timeit was raining; he lost control of his car and hit a pole. They rushed him to the same hospital I was giving labor. He died the same hour I had our son. Lassie, he groaned in pain. Im so sorry, he said. It was a long time ago. I had my son - he looks just

It was a long time ago. I had my son - he looks just like his father, my family; they were amazing during that time. Without them I dont know where I would be. Life moves on. I have a job, my friends, family. What do you do? I wont bore you with details of my job. You have an old soul. He said and she felt his lips on the top of her head. What did your son say about you coming to Ireland? Bring me home a key chain, she said. Gabe laughed. What about you, its your turn to tell me your life story, she said, squeezing his knee softly, enjoying the feel. I grew up here, my da raised me, my ma was in and out the house, she was addicted to heroine, my da family helped raise me, including Annah, she became my ma. I went off to Oxford, majored in international business, started a business, and

lived around the world. Were you ever married? No. Close but thank God, no, How old are you? 37. Oh. Am I to old for ye? He teased gently. Laughing, she shook her head. Im 34. Am I too old for ye? She teased. Ye, he said seriously and she gasped turning towards him only to be met with his disarming smile and a kiss and she could do nothing except smile against his kiss. Why have you never married? She asked once the kiss had stilled. I was consumed with my business. I forgot what a relationship was, the commitment. I sold my business when Felicia called, her parents were growing old, she told me my da

died, shethey needed help. I came home. Gabe she said at the hearing of his fathers passing laying her head on his chest, squeezing his hand. Im sorry. Its alright, lassie, he was a good man, he was eighty, he had me late in life. He had a full life, filled with joy and laughter, sadness and pain. Where is your ma? She asked. I dont know. He was tight lipped regarding his mother, she did not probe further, he shifted the two until they lay on their sides facing each other, she using his forearm as her pillow and he wrapping his other arm around her waist and they talked into the night under the cold sky learning each others secrets, their lives, what pleasured them, what did not. It was nearly two in the morning before exhausted, he walked her back to his cottage, they silent, exhausted and he opened his door checking on Annah who lay on the small cot next to the bed.

Annah who lay on the small cot next to the bed. She is asleep, Gabe said, I put her in my bed, we have until two or so for you to stay up. Do ye want to watch movies? He asked. She nodded. Yes, please, but I have to use the bathroom, I want to take a shower, can I have something to wear? She asked. Mrs. Sheridan brought you a bag, its in my room, next to the door and the towels are in the hallway next to the bathroom. Okay, thank you, she said and he watched her walk up the stairs his eyes once again roving over her curvy body, hed never seen a woman with so many curves, she reminded him of the pin up model dolls the Americans had in the 60s with unbelievably tiny waists, round hips and full breast. She was definitely a woman, she could bring a man to tears with a body like hers.

He shook his head, stroking the fire, hed take a shower after she was finished and found a couple of American movies in his pitiful collection, one of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde the other Sherlock Holmes. I have two, he said, lifting the movies. Which one? Dr. Jekyll, she said, smiling, she was in a black tank top with a long cardigan sweater, black tights and black thick wool socks her hair loose and hanging around her face in soft curls, her face fresh, her lips glistening slightly. He had to close his eyes briefly; she was so amazingly pretty even when she wasnt trying to be he had to get himself under control. The player is all set up, start the movie while I take a shower, he said and she nodded, watching him jog up the stairs. She did, his TV was in a corner armoire made of heavy antique dark cherry wood, a flat screen, she placed the movie in and went to the kitchen, settling the kettle on the stove and

taking down 2 mugs for tea. She felt at home here and only wished Asher was with her, but hed be sleep, in his bed, while her and Gabe would be up. Her mind shook. Why had she thought such a silly thing? There could be no her and Gabe. Shed leave in two weeks never to see him again and get back to the day to day activities of her life. Shed get back to mourning her husband. Her lip trembled slightly, she could still see his brown eyes everywhere, she saw them in her son every day. His lips, the small scar above his upper lip hed gotten while playing baseball as a kid. The high cheekbones, the way his morning beard would cover his hard, strong jaw as hed shuffle into the kitchen, sleepy, smiling at her as she cooked breakfast, for 9 months she cooked him breakfast every morning, his favorite blueberry pancakes and lightly scrambled eggs and hed kiss her in greeting and squeeze her to him and nuzzle her neck while she

in greeting and squeeze her to him and nuzzle her neck while she stood at the stove, his hands on her round stomach and whisper like clockwork, Gmorning Mrs. Amon. Gmorning Mr. Amon, she would return, turning in his arms so they could kiss and moan in pleasure in each others arms, sometimes forgetting the food on the oven, young and in love. Natalya shook her head and the reality of what she was doing hit her. She was cheating on her husband; she was allowing another man to touch her. No man had touched her in thirteen years. The whistle of the tea kettle broke her tormented reprieve, jumping she pulled it off the stove top, her hands trembling badly. Shed forgotten her husband in the time shed been with Gabe. She could not forget; if it had not been for her, if shed not called him so frantic for him to come to the hospital because she was so scared, he would not have rushed, he would

not have lost control of his car and he would not have died and left her alone. It was her fault that he was dead, that shed robbed her son of his father. Lassie, whats wrong? A quiet voice asked. Gabe, she had been right, he reminded her so much of her late husband. Masculine, handsome, tall, strong, welcoming, charming, sweet, seductiveloving. Nothing, she said, turning away from him, brushing aside her stupid tears. Thirteen years and she still cried for him. Your husband? He asked. She didnt say anything, wrapping her arms around herself, bowing her head, hunching over. He was too perceptive. She wanted to escape but had nowhere to go. There was silence, she felt him before he touched her, pulling her into his arms, not speaking, not saying anything, and giving her comfort. They stood that way for long moments before she was

able to shakily pull away. Im sorry, she said. Im not usually this emotional. I, he dont say it, she thought to herself, but the words came unbidden from her throat. Hes goneI know this, but I dont believe it, even after all these years, I still dont believe it. What was it that you loved most about him? He was fearless when I was not. He could face any storm and shrug and say, Its in Gods hands so why worry, little one, she said. He eased so many of my fears. I, I grew up. He was a good man. Ye, she said, smiling softly. Lassie? Gabe asked. Yes? Youve not been with anyone else since he passed. It was a statement; he knew it with every breath of his being. No, I have not.

No, I have not. Why not? Because it would be wrong. He didnt respond. He kissed the top of her head and prepared their mugs of tea and walked her into the living room and sat on the couch and pulled her on his lap and turned on the movie. They watched the two movies with a little conversation, shifting in the seat, enjoying each others heat. It was she who kissed him after the first movie, the hour growing late. He pulled back, questioning her, Are ye sure? He breathed softly against her mouth. Nodding she smiled softly she knew they would, she knew that something like this only came along very rarely. She was already half in love with him after one day and it was more than just lust and the want of the physical, it was peace, contentment, safety, that soonone day, the same way she had

felt upon first meeting her husband was the same way she felt with Gabe, excited, scared, wide eyedknowing, but it was more than that as if this is what she had been waiting for, this is why she could not scratch the wander lust until now. Very, she finally said, closing her eyes and delving her hands in his thick hair, pulling his head down to her lips. Very, she whispered again before he took her mouth in his and they breathed heavily together, touching, caressing. He didnt ask her again, it would be too much. They didnt say anything for long moments, she exhausted and curled on his side, still on the leather sofa. Natalya he said low and softly, he couldnt think of anything to say, he took his shirt and wiped her and himself off. Hmm she said feeling replete and happy and exhausted, snuggling against him. Natalya, Ive been celibate, he was embarrassed, like a little boy, she smiled thinking that she was the inexperienced

one, they both were. So between the two of us there are a lot of years of inexperience and intensely major self-control. He nodded, his face flushing red, she had to close her eyes, he was so handsome, and his morning beard was starting to grow in. We can relearn together all our fantasies, she said, kissing him softly. Felicia will be up in 1 hour, he said, kissing her back.

Felicia was pretty sure she knew what they had been up to, even though they had cleaned moments before shed awakened, sharing hurried kisses. The three ate breakfast together, Natalya fixing blueberry pancakes, kippers and fried potatoes and enjoying the fulfilling food without guilt. Felicia cleaned while Natalya took another shower. You two should just get married now, Felicia said, staring at Gabe from the corner of her eyes. We should, he said.

We should, he said. So that you wont sin every day while she is here, she sniffed disapprovingly. And we should have an overseas marriagedefinitely long distance. She can move here. She is already half in love with you. No she isnt. Felicia sniffed and continued in Gaelic. She is. And you with her. She has a son. He can move here, its a good place to raise children. Shes probably already pregnant now. Felicia! He said. Well she is. I saw the way you two kept looking at each other, how you figured out anyway to touch her. She is quite pretty, I wish I had a body like thatan arse like that. Felicia, he warned, knowing that she teased him.

Felicia, he warned, knowing that she teased him. Well ye dont see arses like that in Ireland. Definitely African. He laughed, he couldnt help it. Felicia, he said. How can you fall instantly for someone so soon? He didnt think stuff like this happened. He knew things like this didnt happen. He was a man of business, facts, numbers, measurements, and statistics. Statistically speaking this should not happen. It happens like it happens, Gabe. Now either you will question every moment of itor you will enjoy every moment of it. Ye, he admitted. Off with ye, go put the lass to bed. And go get some sleep yerself, Im heading home. Ill let Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man Sheridan know shes staying here and Ill check up on ye two throughout the day so the whole town wont think youre

poking herwhich ye are. He gave her a kiss before heading upstairs, Natalya still in the shower, she had to be exhausted it was nearly twelve. He pulled out a pair of jogging pants and opened up the bedroom window to let some fresh air in before turning towards her when she walked in the room, in one of his long shirts and he could tell she wasnt wearing a bra or panties. He tried to breathe himself under control. Ye ready to go to sleep? He asked, staring outside, heavy clouds were rolling in, the smell of rain in the air. Yes, Im so sleepy. Are you coming to bed with me? Ye. She smiled, crawling into bed and under the covers, he gritted his teeth, he really was exhausted, but hard, and knew that she needed to sleep, fat droplets of rain began to hit the ground outside and against the window, he regretfully closed the

window. Please leave it open, she said. I love the sound of the rain. I do to, he said. Ill be back. He kissed her on the cheek, wrapping the cover more deeply around her. Nodding she smiled, held on to him when he would have straightened up. Hurry, she said. He nodded and hurried through the shower, brushing his teeth, barely drying and going back to the bedroom, the house was quiet, dark, it was afternoon and yet looked more like dusk, heavy dark clouds blocking out the sun, fat rain drops steadily beating against the house, lulling her to sleep but she managed to stay awake and snuggled against his stomach and groin as soon as he settled under the covers next to him. He repositioned her until her backside was fully against his front, the two on their sides and his heavy arm on her waist, the other folded beneath his pillow.

folded beneath his pillow. Sleep, now lassie. He whispered. She did and he followed quickly behind her. She knew that she woke up before him, his breathing was heavy, deep, his warmth giving her heat against the chill of the room, hed closed the window sometime in her sleep and the fire had died down, the rain was light but still coming, it was still dark outside. Squinting her eyes looking at the small, old fashioned clock next to the bed; it was now just after eight p.m. She felt refreshed and once again started throbbing, the feel of him against her, his perfect scent, the breadth of him. She turned in his arms, running her hands against the width of his chest, kissing him, knowing she should let him sleep but unable to keep her hands off of him. Lassie, he said sleepily and already she would remember the deep timber of his voice, it radiated right through her soul.

Hmmm she said, kissing him. He turned on his back to give her better access. What are ye doing? He asked, smiling in the dark. Licking you, she said. Why? He responded. Because you taste soabsolutely delicious, she said and continued to do so for long moments until they fell into a blissful passion. They went back to sleep Baby, he said, shaking her gently but she just snuggled more deeply against him. Baby, wake up, he said, nuzzling her neck and nipping her lightly. Moaning, she sighed, wrapping her arms around his back, eyes still closed. Do I have to? She asked. Ye, Felicia will be here soon, we should get up. He said, lightly rubbing his hands along her sides, the curve of her hip before resting in on her stomach, remembering Felicias

words. Alright, then, she said, finally opening her eyes to meet his beautiful ones in the dim light. They glittered as if they had a life of their own; shed never seen eyes so crystal like. But yet he did not move and neither did she. Instead, they stared at each other for long dark moments trying to grasp and understand fate that had brought the two into each others arms. Neither spoke when they finally did leave the bed, he pulling her into the shower with him, caring for her, quiet, contemplative and she stood beneath his ministrations, before drying the two off, dressing and making their way downstairs, holding hands, lovers, questioning and wondering at the enormity of it all. Felicia entered just as they made their way into the kitchen, but Gabe did not release her hand. Instead, he brought it up to his mouth for a kiss, before releasing it to prepare

it up to his mouth for a kiss, before releasing it to prepare dinner. Good evening, Felicia said, smiling slightly, noticing the somber mood. She did not know what had caused it but had not missed the kiss Gabe had graced Natalya with, nor the meaningful look Natalya had given him back. Och, ye two, she said, shaking her head sadly. Dont fight it. Natalya looked with surprise at her bold words as a red flush encased her golden skin. Flushing, she looked away, her hands hidden in her lap under the island in the kitchen. Felicia, Gabe warned, taking out different vegetables and chopping expertly away at carrots and potatoes near the sink. Natalyas cheeks shall stay permanently red if ye continue so, he added, slightly mischievous, slightly serious. Well, ye two are the talk of the town, no less than thirty two townspeople have asked are you an item? If ye knew Natalya while living in America? If ye are getting married?

Married? Natalya squeaked. Married, Felicia declared. And not only that, when is the baby due? Baby? Natalya squeaked. Baby, Anna declared. And if you two were living here or moving to America? Oh. Oh. Oh. Natalya said. She was not use to small towns; she lived in one of the biggest cities in America. People might say a friendly hello, but whole towns did not know your business unless you made the six oclock news. Gabe smiled, shaking his head. A bunch of nosey bodies. Who ye were born and raised with, ye scoundrel. Felicia, this is between Natalya and I, he returned. Not anymore, ma and da will have a word with ye and Im spending the night, again, until Natalya returns to the inn. For shame on ye.

What year is this? Natalya asked perplexed. The year of scarlet letters and witch huntings, Gabe commented. Felicia merely huffed. Well, the fat lot ye have done, my laddie. More than twenty girls gon around teary eyed to hear that ye are off the market due to the pretty American. Thank God. Gabe said. Felicia swatted him on his behind while he raised one dark eyebrow in warning. It was her turn to blush. I didnt mean, I mean, I didnt know my staying here would cause such an uproar, maybe I should return to the inn- Natalya began. No, Gabe stated firmly before laughing. Dont worry, Natalya, we are the talk of the day, come tomorrow another tidbit of gossip will change subjects. Only no other tid bit of gossip changed any of the towns people topic of conversation. Natalya did return to the

towns people topic of conversation. Natalya did return to the inn to be pampered and worried over by Mrs. Sheridan and Old Man. And every morning Gabe would come to pick her up with a small gift in hand; flowers, chocolates, porcelain statues, Irish novels and the two would explore the sights of Ireland, take in shows in Dublin, keep him company while he renovated the picturesque red brick Protestant church his uncle pastored, take in long walks on the coast, picnic, roam the wilds, pick up fresh fruits and vegetables at varying farms, snuggle at the only bookstore in town to read various books by authors long ago forgotten, take in a movie in the city, shop and do what ever else piqued his or her interest, fantasy or thoughts. And after they were done with their many adventures, he would take her back to the inn at a respectable time of nine oclock and kiss her tenderly on the steps of the inn before seeing her safe inside. The days flew by, too fast, neither spoke of her impending departure, they felt the bittersweet moments rush by

them to be lost second by second, moment by moment. Do you think? Natalya began, but stopped quickly, neither broached topics of a future together, it seemed forbidden. What lass? He asked, they were in Dublin in a quaint antique shop within a mile of the city center, rummaging, he looking for something for Annah, she to ship home to her family and son. Shaking her head, she didnt say anything further, her stomach clenching slightly. It had not bothered her since the 2nd day shed arrived and now almost two weeks later it finally decided to make its presence known, she had felt queasy for the past day or two. Instead, she walked away from him, pretending interest in some Gaelic statue, it would be perfect for her mother, she took the statue to the counter and spoke to the shop keeper as he was able to ship the gift for her for a small charge.

Nay, she said turning back towards Gabe. He was the epitome of all her husband had been and more, she was in love, again, after 13 long years of being alone, she was in love again and he only lived an ocean away. He straightened, studying her, his lips thinned, he knew, they both knew, they would have to discuss her leaving, she had a life outside of Ireland and she had her family, her son. Talk lass, he finally said placing the figurine hed been holding down when shed finished her transaction. Im leaving in two days, she said and the thought hurt her heart. And it wasnt just leaving him; it was leaving the town that she had grown to love, the people who had become like a second family to her, the weather and the beautiful Irish countryside. She really was Irish, because once shed landed upon the soil shed felt alive, home, content. I love ye, he said and had not mean to say it but it could not be stopped. Hed not said those words in so many

could not be stopped. Hed not said those words in so many long years, they literally felt foreign, alien and yet so right. I dont want ye to go, but ye have yer son, lassie, he said. There was no words that she could form as tears slipped down her cheeks, he didnt say more, simply pulled her in his arms, consoling her, feeling his hear break. Well make this work, I promise ye, and I dont give me promises lightly, Ill come in a week or two after ye leave, after ye settle in, take ye on an American date, he teased. McDonalds, a movie with super duper sized popcorn, yell like that and then tickle you in the backseat of the car. She laughed, she couldnt help but to as he talked nonsensical words, comforting her, teasing her. This woman had been made for him and no other, he was hers as much as she was his. Hed arranged them a suite at the most expensive hotel and he didnt want to disappoint her, he would figure this out,

even though he hated America, hed move there if it meant being with her for the rest of his life. They could fly to Ireland on her sons vacations, summers, Christmases, after they had more children. He would make this work. He was able to brighten her mood and his also brightened when she wrapped her arms around his neck, whispering in his ear, I love you. They talked then of her trip back home, her son, her family, Chicago. Lassie, I think ye really are Irish, he said as she whispered I love you, this time in Gaelic. Nodding she smiled. I told you, my ancestors were from here. I feel home, for the first time I feel home, but oh, to have my son here to hope he feels the same way. We can video chat right, and then after some months, if we still feel the same, we can figure it out. If that is ye wish, love, he said, smiling when she

smiled, wanting only smiles upon her beautiful full lips to greet him for the rest of his days. They checked in at the hotel, theyd not made love since hed taken her back to the inn, she was nervous and excited, but he wanted to take her out to dinner and she pouted prettily but managed to stop enticing him so the two could dress and leave. By the time dinner had arrived and then dessert she was nearly hopping in her seat, wanting him. But he kept a tight lid on his desire, taking her to a five star theater show, and then traveling the busy city night back to the hotel, hand in hand, feeling nervous and shy, exhilarated and alive. Lassie, he moaned as soon as the door closed behind them and shed wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him. Taim I ngra leat, she whispered in his ear, Im in love with you. Mo chroi, he whispered, my heart.

Mo chroi, he whispered, my heart. He couldnt say more, lifting her in his arms, kissing her, laying her gently on the bed.

He couldnt help her pack, leaning against the wall in her room, watching her stuff the last of her items in her suitcase, shed been smart and shipped off her gifts from the post office in the next town over yesterday and had no more to place on the airplane than when shed came. Ill be in Chicago in two weeks from tomorrow, he said and she nodded, her hands trembling slightly. Just two weeks, lassie, He said, smiling even though her back was turned to him. Wont ye look at me? he asked. She shook her head like a small child. Thats going to be difficult seeing as how Ill drive ye into town and sit with ye at the airport until your plane boards. Her arms crossed. Im being stupid, I know it. I miss

my son so much and Ill miss you so much. I wish, I wish hed want to willingly come here because this is where I want to live. Lassie, ye are worrying yerself sick, ye look ill, stop it, Ill take no more of these thoughts. Ill be in Chicago in two weeks, until then we can web chat, no more? K? His voice softened, he knew he was being harsh but it was to help her help him, otherwise he wouldnt let her go. She needed to see her son, to get back to her life in Chicago, at least for now, hed been thinking of a plan, he would not lose her, he refused to lose her. I love ye, I will not be without ye, ye are mine, he whispered to her in Gaelic, hugging her to him from behind where she instantly relaxed in his arms. I love ye, she said, sounding more Irish with each passing day until finally she turned in his arms, braving a smile and kissing him. I love ye, she said. It was with a sad heart that she said good bye to Mr.

and Mrs. Sheridan and half the towns people came to see her off. She was hugged, given presents, prayed over and kissed. Shed never known people so sweet and so loving in this picturesque village on the shores of Ireland. Gabe packed her suitcases in his car; theyd long since returned her rental in the first week shed arrived. Finally, finally it was time to go as she waved the towns people good bye from the car and did not stop waving until they rounded the corner and they were no longer in her sight. She forced light conversation and he returned when they reached the airport as they held hands tightly, he parking and carrying her two large suitcases which they checked in. They had two hours until the plane departed. They didnt speak, holding each others hands, sometimes kissing each other, sometimes rubbing each others leg, until finally the boarding call. Dont get upset, he asked. Promise me, I dont want to imagine ye upset, give me a kiss, a smile, he said. A

want to imagine ye upset, give me a kiss, a smile, he said. A smile, let me remember ye smiling. She braved one for him and they stood and he kissed her hard and long before pulling away, Two weeks, lassie, wait for me, he said. Nodding, she pulled away before running back to him, flinging herself in his arms, smiling, kissing his face. I love you, she whispered. You are in my heart forever, and then she ran towards the flight attendant her ticket in hand and did not turn around again. He watched the rest of the passengers board, watching while the planes engines roared to life and then slowly, achingly departed from his life. He watched her leave.

1 week later Their routine was back in step; she hugged and kissed

her son silly after picking him up from camp one day after she arrived back in Chicago. He didnt mind so much and chatted her ear off about camp, his friends, the space ships theyd seen, the zero gravity rooms, the experiments. Life grew back into a norm. She would drop Asher off at his private school every morning, go to work as a victim advocator, and every night she video chatted with Gabe and it hadnt been some unusual dream, some fantasy or a fling, she was in love with this man and counted down the days until he arrived. She spoke of him to her sisters and best friends who couldnt wait to meet him, but did not speak yet of him to Asher, other than telling him shed met a nice man and hed shown her Ireland. And finally, finally the day arrived, Asher was spending the night over his cousins house and she waited at the airport for Gabe and the first of him when he stepped off the plane nearly caused her to squeal as she ran to him, happy, engulfed in the biggest hug of her life. I told ye two weeks, lassie, he said and

she felt home again, his voice, his touch, his smell, she remembered, Ireland seemed to be her home, as Chicago became more and more unbearable, the heat, the rudeness, the arrogant people, the sky scrapers, the traffic jams. She wanted her and her son to find home in Ireland. She managed to disengage her arms long enough from around his neck so the two could travel to baggage claim, waiting for his one large suitcase, he would stay for one week before mysteriously having to go to New York and then England. But she had him for one week, while Asher would be in class and basketball practice during the day and then the two would meet and how she prayed they would hit it off. They chatted and were met with a blast of steamy, muggy humid September heat radiating from the parking lot. Gabe had been to Chicago for his business numerous times but it seemed different, not as hellish as before, and then he understood because it was due to his company.

understood because it was due to his company. They first stopped at his hotel, checking him in; he refuted the fact that he needed a nap, teasing her. Only if yell join me, he said and she nodded, for she wanted nothing more than to lie in his arms. Kicking off their shoes, they pulled back the cover, closed the shades and turned up the air conditioner before lying in each others arms, not out of lust or sex, but simply comfort, absence, love. And fell asleep and this time for the both of them, fully and deeply since they left each other two weeks ago. When they awoke it was well past nine and instead of leaving the hotel they called room service and then begin to kiss, awaken those repressed urges, the touch, the breath of each other. She introduced him to her family, her sisters and brothers gave him the third degree, her father studied him, her mother pursed her lips, her nieces giggled when ever he smiled,

mother pursed her lips, her nieces giggled when ever he smiled, and her young nephews cried since they had a new play partner and her son genuinely seemed to like him. They took off fishing with the rest of the guys while she got the third degree from her family, even her nieces, but it was love, theyd not seen her smile like this since her husband has passed and no one dared brook an argument. By the time the men had come back, hed been accepted into the fold, treated just like every one else and it didnt detract her notice that he spent extra time with her parents and her son, giving them time to get used to him. By the end of the week, hed been accepted by her family and friends, much as she had been by his and they stood at the airport again, but there was happiness, smiles. I guess its video chat time, Ill be in New York so we are in the same time zone and then Im flying to England and then back to London, but Ive emailed you my itinerary. He said.

Nodding, she held his hand. And then Asher, he said hed love to go to Ireland for his Thanksgiving break, but the little stinker, he just doesnt want to clean as all the kids are made to do. I cant say I blame him. So two months, before we see each other, again? That might be too long; Ill try to come back at the end of October, okay, lassie? He said. I would love that, she admitted, as they called his plane to board and they hugged and kiss. I love ye, she whispered. Say it in Gaelic, he asked. She did.

The days marched resolutely on. She continuously worked, was a team mom to Ashers basketball games, helped him with math, played basketball with him on the weekends, dropped him off over his friends house or had his friends at her

house. Life went on and she wrote letters to Gabe even though they continued talking, wanting something permanent to give him and would place drops of her perfume within it. He sent her gifts to her and Asher, memories of Ireland, expensive delicate figurines, wild flowers shipped specially from the moors of Ireland, and other beautiful antiques. Asher seemed to be more and more interested in this new and only love interest of his mom. Are you two dating? He asked out the blue, while they played a game of one on one at their apartment complex, he was destroying her in points. Yes, she said wiping the sweat from her eyes. Asher, he is really special, but if you dont like him, or if you cant see yourself living in Ireland, then nothing will happen. Mom, really? Youve been alone since Ive known you; youve concentrated on me my whole life. Maybe, maybe its time for you to concentrate on you.

its time for you to concentrate on you. So Ireland? I know we are going for your vacation, but how about for a longer period of time? Do you mean, like forever? He said. I dont know Asher, but I think, maybe. He didnt say anything for long moments, contemplating before shooting a basket, it circled the rim before dropping inside. That Ill have to think about. Nothing permanent now, just Thanksgiving, k, babe? She said. K, mom. It would be niceitd be nice to be a family, if thats what youre talking aboutto have a dad. They continued the rest of the game in silence. They arrived at Dublin airport, lightly packed; they would only stay five days due to the length of time it would take them to travel back and forth between the countries. Asher kept saying cool, stared quizzically at the accents as they met Gabe.

Hey, lassie, hey Asher, Gabe said, giving her a hug and Asher a grown up handshake. Hey, Gabe, Asher said, smiling brightly. Cool country you got here, he said. Gabe laughed. Thanks. The two kept up a running conversation while they waited for their luggage and finally made their way out to his car, the weather overcast and cold. The three chatted the entire way, it was not a holiday for Ireland but the village continued as always. It was just as picturesque as Natalya had left it. Shed printed off all the pictures shed taken, had made many black and white photos and blown them up and placed them in oversize, black tasteful picture frames and placed them over her headboard at home. But pictures could not do this town justice, she felt home again, even her stomach was calm again.

Wow, Asher said, It looks just like that picture you have in your bedroom, mom, he exclaimed. This is the picture I have in my bedroom, I was right on this road, she said as they came to the crest of the small dirt road overlooking the town, the picturesque church squire, the cottage houses with ivy, the small and neat garden, the sheep baying upon the hill side. This is home, she whispered to herself, Asher didnt hear, but Gabe did. They made their way to his home, Felicia would stay with them, it would be tight, but Gabe would not have it any other way. He settled them in, Natalya and Gabe upstairs, Felicia on the couch and he on a cot downstairs. Felicia was already cooking a scrumptious meal of fried chicken, dumplings, fresh green beans and mashed potatoes. She squealed upon seeing Natalya and squealed even louder upon viewing Asher. Och, look at this handsome lad, looks like a Hollywood movie

Och, look at this handsome lad, looks like a Hollywood movie star, she exclaimed, clutching him to her in a tight hold. Gabe surprised Natalya, the doorbell rang and more than ten people including his aunt and uncle and Mr. and Mrs. Sheridan stood at the door steps with pies, dishes and exclaimed and laughed. The night continued on well past mid night, as two men took out fiddles and the rest of the company moved Gabes furniture aside to dance, and a pretty young girl, 13, with bright read hair and beautiful green eyes, Mr. and Mrs. Sheridans granddaughter stared at Asher and blushed and the older people watched the two dance. Soon everyone joined in and it was well after two in the morning before the final guest left and Asher, exhausted from the long trip, the good food, the dancing and his new crush fell asleep upstairs within seconds of brushing his teeth and getting into his pajamas.

Felicia soon followed him, while Natalya and Gabe, after cleaning the kitchen and rearranging the furniture, bundled up beneath heavy coats and quilts and Gabe took her to that place to view the stars as theyd did before. Baby, Gabe said, as she stood wrapped in a blanket and turned, her eyes so meltingly beautiful he could barely speak. Natalya, I have never thought I could find love like this, you are everything and more. I feel whole and complete every time I am with you. Natalya, he said and knelt on one knee beneath the cold and crystal clear night sky. Natalya will you do me the honor of marrying me and living your life with me, no matter if it is here or in Georgia, wherever you or Asher want to live. As long as I can be a husband to you, a father to him and to any future children we may have? She didnt want to cry but she did and nodded while he placed the heavy antique diamond ring upon her finger. Well, you must get ready then my love, because you are going to be a

father twice over in eight months. His mouth dropped in such a comical way Natalya laughed, before placing a gentle kiss on his lips. Are you okay? She asked worried. I know this is all moving so fast. Weve barely had time to court, to date, she worried prettily. I know this is a lot, she said. We are in this together, the thought of you pregnant with my childIve never heard such a wonderful phrase. Natalya, the question is are you okay? Yes, yes, I promise you, there is no doubt, no question in my heart. Its just the distanceI do not know, Asher, we have lived in Chicago most of our entire lives. And I am most worried about the changes and how they will affect him. We will make this decision together. Natalya, I found a homein Chicago, for us, I thought that maybe, we could stay there for a year or two, to prepare Asher for Irelandand the

there for a year or two, to prepare Asher for Irelandand the new baby, so that your family will be with youwith us. And then we can move to Ireland, permanently. There is no other place on earth that I wish to be and I was hoping you would fill the same. But I will stay in Chicago, permanently if that is your wish, my love. I just ask that we come to Ireland for all major holidays, he ended a sweetly shy smile on his face, boyish and beautiful. She couldnt speak, only hugged him so tightly she nearly choked on him, smiling, laughing, crying. I love you, I love you, she whispered fervently over and over again, the diamond glittering in the dusk of moon light. Does Asher, does Asher, I mean, I know this is all so new, I dont want to do anything wrong, will he accept me as his father? Nodding, she smiled. I think but we should talk to him together.

16 months later I love this country, Natalya said, smiling towards her husband as he lightly bounced their baby daughter, Olivia in his hands, Asher and Rebecca, roaming ahead of them as they made their way to the top of the small grassy knoll over looking the beautiful coast line, while Natalya carried the blanket and picnic basket. She spread out the blanket, while watching Asher and Rebecca run through the water, shoes off, pants rolled up. They settled Olivia down, who cooed, while sitting up against her fathers lap, bobbing up and down with, her fathers ice blue eyes merrily staring at her parents, and her mothers golden brown skin, waving her arms excitedly, while Gabe laid down, pulling his daughter in his arms and giving her wet zerberts on her tummy. Her giggles filled the air, as along Rebeccas laugher as Natalya looked with contentment, pulling out the picnic lunch

shed prepared early, baked chicken, potato salad, fresh carrots and broccolis, strawberries, rolls, and apple pie. Are you ready to eat? Natalya said, smiling and kissing her husband, while Gabe sat up, still lightly bouncing their daughter, whose black curls bounced in rhythm as she tried to reach for a strawberry. Ye, he said, returning her kiss, before their daughter swung her fists around and made the two separate and laugh. Me dear, Gabe said, staring at his wife. Yes, she said, turning towards him, but he said nothing, simply staring. Gabe, whats wrong? She said. Absolutely nothing, he said. I love youif not for God bringing you in my lifeour family; I would have been empty, still dead inside. I love you.